Sydney Showell

A 71-year-old man from Burton-on-Trent has been sentenced to over 23 years in prison for a series of horrific child sex offences committed years earlier. Sydney Showell was investigated by Staffordshire Police after brave survivors came forward to report the abuse they had endured at his hands.

The offences, which involved the rape and sexual assault of children, occurred a number of years prior to the reports being made. Once the allegations surfaced, Staffordshire Police launched a thorough investigation. Showell was arrested, questioned in custody, and initially denied all accusations. However, dedicated police work, including evidence gathering and support for the survivors, led to charges being filed against him in March 2023.

Showell stood trial at Stafford Crown Court, where a jury found him guilty on 14 counts related to child sexual abuse. The charges included:

• Two counts of rape of a boy
• Four counts of sexual assault of a child
• Five counts of causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity
• One count of causing a child to watch or look at an image of sexual activity
• One count of engaging in sexual activity with a child
• One count of attempt to engage in sexual activity with a child

On Tuesday, 7 May 2024, Showell was sentenced to 23 years and five months' imprisonment. In addition, he was ordered to be placed on the Sex Offender’s Register for life, ensuring ongoing monitoring to protect the public.

Detective Constable Gemma Szalapski, from Staffordshire Police's Rape and Serious Sexual Assault unit, highlighted the significance of the survivors' courage in bringing the case to light. The investigation underscores the police force's commitment to pursuing justice for historical sexual offences against children.

Source: Staffordshire Police official news release, published 14 May 2024.